Denver Broncos' Andre Goodman gets better with age

10-year pro proving doubters wrong with Broncos

ENGLEWOOD -- Andre Goodman's career has hit a high point that's coincided with the Denver Broncos' run to the top of the AFC West.

Goodman's first-ever interception return for a TD made quarterback Tim Tebow's last-minute heroics against the New York Jets on Nov. 17 possible. His interception of Vikings rookie Christian Ponder in Minnesota last Sunday led to Matt Prater's winning field goal as time expired.

Yet, it wasn't long ago that the 10th-year veteran was wondering whether his years as a pro were over. That lingering doubt extended well into the early part of Denver's season, which began with four losses in five games.

Coming off a 2010 season during which he was forced to miss significant time because of injury, there was reason for his skepticism. Add to that his age, 33, and a new coaching staff coming into this season, and it was clear why Goodman was wondering.

"When we reported and I walked into the building there was still uncertainty on my part whether I'd still be here or not," Goodman said. "At any moment, they could trade for a guy, bring in a free agent. There was just so much uncertainty walking into the building and I never felt comfortable until they put out the final roster before the first regular-season game. I think that's when I realized, 'I'm going to be here.'"

New head coach John Fox and his staff had done some housecleaning. Holdovers like Renaldo Hill and Nate Jones -- all members of last year's secondary - were cut.

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Goodman survived in part because of his deep resume as a cover corner and because Broncos staff went back to the 2009 tape, when he played his second straight 16-game season, to get a better read on his abilities.

"Obviously just watching him in camp, without having an offseason, I think all of our guys were a little rusty coming in initially," Broncos defensive coordinator Dennis Allen said. "But I think probably about halfway through camp you realized he still had the ability to cover and he was getting his legs back under him."

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